We have some friends in South Africa (you know who you are) who had the rule with their kids that they are not allowed to watch TV during the school week. I thought this was a good idea, so we decided to implement it in our home.
This was successful for a very short time. We started to allow them to watch one or two programs after supper, before bedtime. Then it grew to watching some even before supper if they were done with their homework. In reality, the kids were watching TV most afternoons and evenings. I realized this is not what we had wanted.
So, this week, I told the girls that we were going to re-implement this rule and this time, there would be truly no TV during the school week. They can watch it – as a treat – Friday after school and on Saturday. Monday was tough. Gabi wandered around not sure what to do. (In all fairness, it is still rainy season, so it is tricky when we are all stuck inside because of the torrential downpour outside). Tuesday was better.
In fact, I find that if I clean up the supper dishes, sweep the floors and light the candles, the house feels clean and calm. So, that’s what I’ve been doing. After the house is calm, the girls and I have been sitting in the candlelit living room, reading from their chapter book. I have really come to enjoy this new routine. I find it helps them before bedtime, too. They are calmer when it’s time to go to bed and they really enjoy the time together with Mommy. I know it’s only been 3 days, but I really love it.
It’s a great idea to turn off the TV and spend special time with your kids. Maybe this holiday season, you need to slow down a bit and remember how great the simple life can be. It worked for me.
